Test the soil with a simple pH soil kit to check if your soil is acid or alkaline. If acid (a pH of 6 or less), apply a fast-acting dolomite lime at the rate of 50 pounds per 1000 square feet. If alkaline (a pH of 7 or higher), apply a granular gypsum at the rate of 50 lbs per 1,000 square feet.

•Till or rough up the soil.

• Using a spreader, spread the seed at recommended rates.

• Rake the seed into the soil no deeper than the recommended planting depth for your particular variety. There needs to be good seed to soil contact, and make sure that your seed is not planted too deep.

• Keep the area watered according to watering instructions until germination. Germination varies according to seed type and weather conditions.

• Do not apply any type of herbicide or pre-emergent until approximately 3-4 weeks after planting. These chemicals can burn the tender seedlings.